When it comes to angling, choosing between a spinning reel and a baitcaster reel depends on several factors. Casting distance is one of them. Based on the size of the fish and the fishing spot, a longer cast may prove more beneficial. Now the question is, which type of rod cast further?
A baitcaster can cast further than a spinning reel of the same length and power. This is because a baitcaster has a larger line capacity and heavier lures. A baitcaster also provides greater accuracy and control when targeting a distant area. Spinning reels offer a comparably lower casting distance.
Here, I will go over why the casting range is different for a spinner and a baitcaster. Additionally, I will explain which particular reel is better suited for a particular situation.
Whether you are angling as a hobby or a livelihood, knowing the proper specification of each reel is essential. And this article is here to give you some helpful insight.
Factors Affecting the Casting Distance
You will have to consider various elements when calculating the casting distance of any particular fishing rod. The material and size of the fishing line, the size and weight of the bait or lure, the length of the pole, etc. You also have external factors to consider like the wind, throwing action, etc.
The longer the pole, the further you can reach. An 8-foot rod can carry the same lure further than a 7-foot rod, provided you throw with similar action and power.
If the fishing line is thin and lightweight, it will face less drag or resistance in the air. So, lighter lines will offer more distance on your cast.
The material of the line also plays a part in this. There are three types of lines that are most popular. These are fluorocarbon, braid, and monofilament. Braid possesses the smallest diameter which makes it thinner. A 25-pound braid line will carry further than a 25-pound fluorocarbon line.
The lure or bait follows the opposite principle. You can cast longer with a heavier lure because the weight will add momentum.
Another factor is line capacity. This is the maximum length of line the spool of any reel can hold without overloading. A larger line capacity will provide a greater casting distance.
Your fishing tools must be durable enough to endure the conditions you will encounter. If your tool is weak, it will be significantly affected by external factors such as the wind. This will impede your casting action and distance.
How Far Can a Baitcaster Cast?
The average long-casting distance is around 55-60 yards (50-54 meters) with a 7-foot baitcaster. Now, you can go over 100 yards with a 12-foot rod! But most bass anglers consider a 60-yard cast to be a long and healthy cast. So, let’s look at the factors that allow a baitcaster to reach this mark:
- A standard baitcaster is capable of holding more lines compared to a spinner. Due to the increased capacity, you can throw further.
- A baitcaster is perfect for lures with more weight like crankbait. The heavy lure moves through the air swifter. As a result, there is less resistance.
- Baitcaster rods have a lightweight and flexible build. They are also more durable in rough environmental conditions. Meaning the line or pole will not break easily.
- The reel of a baitcaster is in line with the length of the pole. So, when you cast, the line comes out straight. This grants excellent precision when casting long.
You can utilize any sort of line with baitcaster reels. I advise using heavier lines if you wish to capture bigger fishes like bass. However, using a bulky line will shorten how far you can cast.
How Far Can a Spinning Reel Cast?
A solid spinning reel cast would be around 40 yards. Now, let’s look at the contributing factors:
On average, a spinning reel is pretty heavy. It is also less durable. This is why it is less resistant to wind pressure and rough situations.
Spinners typically have a very limited line capacity. Now, you can add an extra fishing line with an additional reel. But that will only make the rod heavier to control.
They work best with lightweight baits or lures. Heavy lures may end up breaking the line on a spinning rod. This contributes to a smaller casting distance.
Ordinarily, a spinning reel is used with a lighter fishing line that has a small diameter. Most users operate with a braid line.
All these elements come to gather to give spinning reels a shorter casting distance. But in most cases where you use a spinner, this tends to be enough.
Does a Spinning Reel Cast Further Than a Baitcaster?
A baitcaster will offer you 20-30% more distance on your cast than a spinning reel. Now let’s directly contrast the two fishing reels to see why there is a difference.
For a fair comparison, I am going to assume that both have the same pole length and other external factors are also similar.
Most spinning reels hold 160-180 yards of line if it is monofilament, whereas a typical baitcaster holds up to 250-300 yards. So, you will get more distance with a baitcaster.
Spinners are bulkier and less durable in harsh climates than baitcasters. So you can not throw a long cast as easily with a spinning reel.
Spinning reels are more suited to lightweight lures. Baitcasters are more compatible with heavyweight fishing lures, which increases their casting capacity.
A spinning reel is situated on the side of the fishing pole. This launches the fishing line in a circular motion. On the contrary, the line from a Baitcaster comes out straight. So, a baitcaster allows for better accuracy and direction. This way you will be able to throw from a distance without scaring the fish.
Now, spinning reels usually utilize thin fishing lines. This is more useful for reaching a greater distance compared to a wider fishing line. So, in this instance, a spinning reel has the edge.
But fishing lines are easily customizable. A baitcaster can operate with all kinds of lines. So, you can readily change it to suit your needs.
So, the final verdict: You can cover more distance with a baitcaster. You can try to match that distance (60 yards) with a spinning reel. But you will lose a lot of control and may end up breaking the line. With a baitcaster, you will be able to hit that 60-yard mark more consistently and with greater accuracy.
The Benefits of a Having a Bigger Casting Distance
You can maintain a safe distance between yourself and the fish. This minimizes the risk of scaring off the target. It also offers you a wider area of search. Since it is so durable, you can cast it far without fearing that the line will break.
The baitcaster allows you to hit a targeted area with great accuracy. You can repeatedly tap the same spot. If you feel the cast is wrong, then you can rapidly adjust or stop. Thus, preventing any serious issues from occurring.
All this makes baitcasters the best choice for saltwater fishing. The use of heavyweight lures and the added degree of durability makes it ideal for capturing larger and heavier fishes.
When to Use the Shorter Cast
If you are just starting as an angler, you will likely find a spinning reel more comfortable. This rod is fine for freshwater fishing where the fishes are small to medium in size. Because the spinning reel works better with lightweight baits and thin lines.
How to Cast Further
There is a limit to how far you can throw with your fishing rod, regardless of which reel you are using. Still, applying the right technique will allow you to hit the maximum distance. So, here are some tips:
First, you should select the ideal combination of reel, line, and pole. All 3 things must be in sync to get the maximum return. Read the weight rating and employ lures accordingly. Also, properly clean and lubricate your reel as friction inside the bearing can notably reduce the casting distance.
Fully utilize your throwing action. Use both of your hands. And go with a round swing like you are throwing a baseball. But remember not to over-exert yourself. Using too much force may reduce the distance you will gain.
The lure or bait should be aerodynamic to reduce air resistance. When utilizing a baitcaster, you should use a heavy bait or lure.
Operate with a braid fishing line majority of time. Also, remember to fill up the spool. A half-filled spool will not get you the distance. Here is a very useful tutorial demonstrating these tips to cast further.
Selecting the right fishing equipment is the first and most important step for any angler. If your priority is to achieve a long cast, a baitcaster will suit your needs perfectly. If you are just beginning, then you will find a spinning reel more comfortable.